Camellia
Camellia has glossy green leaves and vibrant flowers that bloom throughout winter. The shade-loving plant comes in a host of colors, including white, coral, pink, yellow, and red––and some extra-showy specimens display more than one hue. Camellia’s growing habits vary based on variety, with some resembling trees while others take the traditional shrub form. As long as you select a winter-blooming variety, you can rely on camellia for lustrous greenery and cold-weather color for many seasons to come. Available from The Home Depot .
Related: Liven Up Your Winter Porch with 8 Cold-Loving Plants
Firethorn
Pyracantha, better known as firethorn, is a low-maintenance evergreen that provides seasonal interest in the form of bright berries that, depending on variety, can be golden, red, or orange-red. It’s easy to grow, versatile, and beautiful in a hedge or as an accent shrub. Many varieties of firethorn thrive in several planting zones, so you should be able to find a number of options that suit your requirements for growth pattern and berry color. Available from Fast-Growing-Trees.com .
Related: How to Help Your Houseplants Survive the Winter
Beautyberry
Resplendent in thick green foliage during the growing season, beautyberry produces cascades of glossy, iridescent purple berries in the winter. The three- to five-foot shrub is a striking addition to any landscape, and it also provides life-sustaining food for birds and other wildlife. Available from The Home Depot .
Related: 8 No-Care Plants for Killer Curb Appeal in Every Season
Fringe Flower
Thanks to its rich burgundy foliage, fringe flower brings a unique touch of color and texture to the yard or garden, no matter the season. But the plant’s main draw is its profusion of long, bright pink flowers that bloom in winter, instantly cheering up an otherwise bleak yard. Available on Amazon .
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Red Twig Dogwood
After losing its summertime covering of white flowers and its fall crop of berries and leaves, the red twig dogwood draws attention with its bright red branches that remain colorful throughout winter. The plant provides a beautiful counterpoint to snowy landscapes, white-barked birch trees, and dark evergreens like hollies. Available on Amazon .
Related: 25 Plants for Your Easiest Garden Ever
Nandina 'Firepower'
This dwarf variety of nandina has a rush of brilliant flame-colored foliage that lasts throughout the cold season—which explains its “firepower” moniker. Unlike its cousin, heavenly bamboo, firepower stays compact, reaching only about two feet by two feet, making it an excellent border shrub or accent. Available from The Home Depot .
Related: 10 Fast-Growing Plants for (Almost) Instant Curb Appeal
Winterberry
Ilex verticillata, commonly known as winterberry, is a deciduous holly that loses its glossy green leaves in winter, then erupts with red berries that are a feast for both the birds and your eyes. Only the female plants produce berries, so be sure you have both male and female specimens on your property for proper pollination. Available from The Home Depot .
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Viburnum Nudum 'Winterthur'
Viburnum nudum 'Winterthur' bursts with foliage and fruit in the fall. Its leaves turn dark maroon, and its tightly clustered berries start off green before turning pink, red, and ultimately dark blue. The plant is also pretty during springtime, when it features dark green leaves and groupings of small off-white blooms. Available on Amazon .
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Abelia 'Kaleidoscope'
An easy-to-maintain dwarf evergreen, 'Kaleidoscope' abelia changes color from yellow-gold in spring to orange-red in fall, then becomes peppered with white flowers throughout winter. The shrub is hardy to -10 degrees Fahrenheit and works well as a border, accent, or container plant. Available from The Home Depot .
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Mahonia
With holly-like leaves and spiking flowers, mahonia lends charm to any garden. It blooms in late winter with a shock of cheerful yellow flowers, and purple-blue berries add interest in the spring. Mahonia tolerates both shade and drought, making it a great choice for gardeners looking for low-maintenance showy shrubs. Available from Wilson Bros Gardens .
Related: 20 Plants That Survive With or Without You
Enjoy the Season
Fall and winter don't last forever. Soon it will be spring and your garden will be growing. Perform a little yard maintenance now to make peak lawn and garden season easier and more beautiful than ever.
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